Garbage Disposal Tips During the Holidays

Peace of Mind for You and Your Pipes

The holiday season is upon us, bringing festive gatherings, delicious meals, and an abundance of waste going down your garbage disposals. While it might not be the first thing on your mind during the busy season, your garbage disposal needs some attention to keep running smoothly. A malfunctioning disposal can lead to plumbing issues, garbage disposal repairs, and unwanted stress during the most wonderful time of the year. Below, we'll provide important garbage disposal tips to ensure a smooth and hassle-free holiday season.

Be mindful of what you put down the drain

Garbage disposals are not invincible; they can't handle everything you throw down them. Avoid putting items like bones, potato peels, eggshells, coffee grounds, and fibrous vegetables (like celery) down the disposal. Charcuterie board items also can often spell trouble for your disposal system. When nuts make their way into the disposal, they can turn into a thick, pasty substance that can be pretty challenging to process. Olive pits can potentially harm blades or penetrate the motor of the disposal unit. Cheese, known for its greasy texture, can contribute to a sticky buildup when combined with other food scraps, ultimately leading to potential clogs. It's best to avoid disposing of these items in your garbage disposal to maintain its smooth operation.

Cut food into smaller pieces

To prevent overloading your disposal, cut larger food items into smaller pieces. This reduces the strain on blades and allows for a smoother disposal process. It's important during holiday feasts when you're dealing with a substantial amount of food waste.

Run cold water while using the disposal

Whenever you're using the garbage disposal, make sure to run cold water at a strong flow. The cold water helps solidify any grease or fats in the disposal, making it easier for the blades to chop them up. It also prevents clogs by pushing food particles down the drain.

Don’t pour grease down the drain

Cooking holiday meals often involves a lot of greasy dishes. Never pour grease or cooking oils down the drain, as they can solidify and lead to clogs in your pipes. Instead, collect the grease in a container and dispose of it properly.

Freshen it up with Total-C

To keep your garbage disposal smelling fresh, consider purchasing Total-C from your Plumbing or Drain Specialist. This product works by actively neutralizing unpleasant odors that can accumulate in your garbage disposal over time. Its unique formula targets and eliminates the source of the smells, leaving your kitchen with a noticeably fresher and more inviting atmosphere.

Schedule regular maintenance

A properly functioning garbage disposal is essential for a stress-free holiday season. By following these helpful tips, you can avoid plumbing issues, save money on repairs, and focus on enjoying quality time with your loved ones. Remember, a little care for your garbage disposal can go a long way in making your home more comfortable during the festive months!

Atlas Butler Can Handle Garbage Disposal Service

For peace of mind during the holiday season, schedule a maintenance check with an Atlas Butler tech, as they can identify any potential issues and address them before they become major problems. If your garbage disposal is jammed by food, Atlas Butler can replace your garbage disposal during a service call. Our plumbing techs are standing by to help keep your holidays merry and bright.

Call Atlas Butler 24/7 at 1-800-FURNACE to speak with a representative or visit atlasbutler.com.